Back from Qiqihar, sharing some honest thoughts.

🌅"When life has no answers, go wild outdoors." In July, this vibrant and energetic season, I embarked on a journey to Qiqihar to explore the city's unique charm. Now, I'm sharing my ultimate July travel guide to Qiqihar with you👇

🗺️ Itinerary: Longsha Park → Yongqishun Old Restaurant → Zhonghuan Square Night Market → Zhalong Nature Reserve → Baokun BBQ → Laodong Lake

🌟 Introduction: Located in western Heilongjiang, Qiqihar is a city rich in natural resources and unique cultural charm. In July, Qiqihar enjoys pleasant weather with an average temperature above 20°C, making it an excellent summer retreat.

🎈 Top Attractions:

- Longsha Park: The oldest park in Northeast China with over a century of history, free admission. Here, you can see locals doing morning exercises, full of life. You can also enjoy boating on the lake for about 30 yuan/hour. Open from 6:00 to 21:00.
- Zhalong Nature Reserve: Home to red-crowned cranes, the world's largest breeding ground. Witness the breathtaking crane release shows, held four times daily (9:30/11:00/14:00/15:30). Ticket + shuttle bus costs about 60 yuan.
- Zhonghuan Square Night Market: A lively night spot with various Northeastern snacks like grilled cold noodles and skewers. You can eat to your heart's content for about 30 yuan per person.
- Yongqishun Old Restaurant: A local favorite, famous for its crispy and tender sweet-and-sour pork (Guobaorou), about 40 yuan per person.
- Baokun BBQ: A representative of Qiqihar-style grilled meat. Must-try items include lamb skewers and grilled heart tubes, about 50 yuan per person.
- Laodong Lake: A perfect spot for an evening stroll to enjoy the beautiful light show and gentle breeze, free of charge.
- Longsha Zoo: The largest wildlife park in Northeast China, where you can see various adorable animals and even feed giraffes. In summer, there are vast flower fields and night light shows.
- Mingyue Island Scenic Area: A gem on the Songhua River. You can take a boat to the island or walk across the ice in winter. The ancient-style buildings in "Mingyue Island Villa" are quite unique.

🍱 Food Recommendations:

- Guobaorou: Sweet and sour crispy pork, best at Yongqishun Old Restaurant.
- Grilled Cold Noodles: Try the version with egg and sausage at Zhonghuan Square Night Market for a satisfying bite.
- Qiqihar BBQ: Must-try items at Baokun BBQ include lamb skewers and grilled heart tubes, along with family-style mixed meat and grilled pickled cabbage.
- Madieer Ice Cream: Enjoy a creamy and refreshing ice cream by Laodong Lake.
- Northeastern Dried Tofu Skin Salad: A tangy and spicy appetizer with a smooth texture.

🏨 Accommodation Tips:

- Jinjiang Inn (Qiqihar Longsha Park Branch): Just a 5-minute walk from Longsha Park, clean and quiet with comfortable bedding.
- Home Inn (Train Station Branch): Great value, convenient transportation, and easy access to attractions.

📌 Travel Tips:

- Mosquitoes are common in Qiqihar in July, so bring repellent.
- Zhalong Nature Reserve is quite far from the city center, requiring over 2 hours round trip, so plan accordingly.
- Book attraction tickets and hotels online in advance to avoid delays.

🌈 This trip to Qiqihar allowed me to enjoy stunning natural scenery, delicious local food, and the city's unique charm. If you're looking for a summer retreat in July, consider Qiqihar!